How to Get Around Without a Car on Campus

Helpful Tips

08/13/2018
Casey Shearns

Your college campus has all the essentials- a dining hall, gym and plenty of places to study. However, staying in one area all semester can get a little boring, and sometimes you need access to a place your campus doesn’t offer. Many schools don’t allow freshmen to have cars on campus and many students frankly don’t have cars to bring. No worries! There are still plenty of ways to get around without spending a fortune on campus parking.

Walk- If your school is in the city or your college town has a downtown area, many stores and restaurants are likely in walking distance of campus. Walking is great exercise to burn off those dining hall cookies, and being outside can actually help relieve stress. Make sure the area is safe to walk and bring a buddy, then go!

Public transportation- You probably took a big yellow school bus when you were in elementary school, and you may be getting acquainted with buses again in your college years. Many cities and towns have bus or train systems that stop near colleges. They’ll usually take you to the town center, grocery store, shopping areas or other popular locations. Buses are generally affordable, or even free. If you go to a large college, your school might even have their own private bus system. Be sure to do your research on your school’s public transportation options.

Ridesharing apps- In your time at college, you may need to go see a doctor, go buy an outfit at the mall, or just want to try a restaurant off campus with friends. Ridesharing apps like Uber or Lyft are great to use when you need to go somewhere off campus that aren’t on the public transportation routes. They can get a bit expensive to use all the time, but the convenience of being picked up right in front of your dorm and taken right where you need to go.

Ask Around!- Friends, roommates, teammates or anyone else you’re close with can be a great resource if you’re really stuck. Chances are at least one person in your circle brought their car and it can be fun to have a friend join you. Make sure you chip in for gas!

These are just a few ways to get around on campus when you don't have a ride. There are plenty more like riding a bicycle for instance...any more to add? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter!